First National Seminar of SPS BiH – Strengthening Democratic Culture and Political Dialogue

First National Seminar of SPS BiH – Strengthening Democratic Culture and Political Dialogue

From 26 to 29 March 2026, the first National Seminar of the School of Political Studies of the Council of Europe in Bosnia and Herzegovina (SPS BiH) took place at Vlašić, bringing together a newly selected generation of young political leaders and professionals from across the country. The seminar, entitled “Strengthening Democratic Culture and Political Dialogue in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, focused on enhancing democratic standards, fostering political dialogue, and supporting the development of future leaders.

Throughout the four-day programme, participants engaged with distinguished speakers from political, academic, and media spheres, addressing key challenges and opportunities for democratic development in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

During the seminar, participants:

✔️ discussed the challenges of political compromise and reform processes in Bosnia and Herzegovina,
✔️ explored the role of political and social dialogue in building a democratic society,
✔️ examined the relationship between political stability and economic development,
✔️ addressed questions of European and Euro-Atlantic integration,
✔️ analysed the role of populism in political communication and its impact on societal polarization.

The programme featured contributions from high-level experts and practitioners, including former ministers, diplomats, members of parliament, and media representatives, who provided valuable insights and encouraged interactive discussions with participants.

In addition to formal sessions, the seminar created a dynamic platform for exchange among participants from diverse political, social, and geographical backgrounds, promoting mutual understanding and strengthening networks among emerging leaders.

The first National Seminar marked an important step in the implementation of the 2026 programme, laying the foundation for further activities aimed at reinforcing democratic culture and political dialogue in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The activities under the ENTER: CHANGE project are supported by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Republic of Slovenia through the Slovenian Aid and Partnerships programme.

Skopje to Host Launch of Nursing and Midwifery Reform Project (2026–2028)

Skopje to Host Launch of Nursing and Midwifery Reform Project (2026–2028)

The second phase of the CEP project “Strengthening Education and Professional Regulation in Nursing and Midwifery in North Macedonia (2026–2028)” begins this April with a series of inaugural activities in Skopje. Over the next three years, the project will modernize nursing and midwifery education to align with EU standards, strengthen continuing professional development, and promote leadership and professional empowerment. It will also establish sustainable professional regulation systems, improve institutional cooperation, and deepen the partnership between Slovenia and North Macedonia.

From 20 to 24 April 2026, a week-long program in Skopje will convene representatives from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education and Science of North Macedonia, along with the CEP Project Team and other local stakeholders. Expert workshops will focus on building local institutional capacity and developing practical tools to support implementation of the project and steps toward harmonization with European standards in the field of nursing and midwifery.

A highlight of the week will be the Official Project Launch Ceremony, bringing together senior representatives from the Macedonian Ministries of Health and Education and Science, the Embassy of Slovenia in Skopje, CEP, and key international partners including the WHO Office in Skopje, UNFPA, and UNICEF.

 

The project is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia through the International Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Programme.